Description
These No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars are a deliciously rich and chewy snack packed with hearty rolled oats, creamy peanut butter, and decadent dark chocolate chips. With an optional touch of maple syrup and a hint of vanilla, these bars come together quickly without any baking, making them perfect for an easy afternoon treat or on-the-go snack.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter (or nut butter of choice)
- 5 tablespoons butter
- ⅓ cup milk
- ¼ cup 100% pure maple syrup (optional)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 1½ cups dark chocolate chips
- Pinch of sea salt
- 3¼ cups rolled oats (regular or gluten free)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a small saucepan, add the peanut butter, maple syrup (if using), vanilla extract, milk, butter, and dark chocolate chips. This combination blends the creamy and sweet elements needed for the bars.
- Heat Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium-low heat and stir frequently. Heat until the chocolate chips are fully melted and the mixture is smooth and well combined, ensuring all ingredients integrate seamlessly.
- Mix with Oats: Remove the saucepan from heat and pour the warm peanut butter and chocolate mixture over the rolled oats and a pinch of sea salt in a large mixing bowl. Stir thoroughly to coat all the oats evenly.
- Press into Pan: Line an 8×8 inch square pan with parchment paper. Transfer the oat mixture into the pan, pressing down firmly and evenly to create a compact layer. This will help the bars hold their shape once chilled.
- Chill to Set: Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for 30 minutes to 1 hour. This step firms up the mixture, making it easier to cut into bars and enhancing the chewy texture.
Notes
- You can substitute the peanut butter with any nut or seed butter of your choice for different flavors.
- Maple syrup is optional but adds natural sweetness and moisture to the bars.
- Use gluten-free rolled oats if you need the bars to be gluten-free.
- For firmer bars, chill for the full hour before slicing.
- Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week or freeze for longer storage.
